Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs)
Why in the News?
The Union Minister for Culture and Tourism has provided information about the Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs) in Lok Sabha.
About Zonal Cultural Centres (ZCCs):
| About |
• Set up by the Ministry of Culture to promote and preserve cultural heritage.
• Established in 1985, with operations beginning in 1986-87.
• Seven ZCCs located in Patiala, Nagpur, Udaipur, Prayagraj, Kolkata, Dimapur, and Thanjavur. |
| Aims and Objectives |
• Preserving and promoting regional folk, tribal, and traditional arts.
• Enhancing and celebrating India’s cultural diversity.
• Encouraging folk & tribal arts and promoting cultural education.
• Involving youth in creative cultural programs.
• Strengthening linkages between different regions of India to showcase their contribution to Indian culture. |
| Implementation and Structural Mandate |
• Government allocated Rs. 10 crore to each ZCC during the 7th and 10th Plans.
• Free land provided by state governments for ZCC headquarters.
• Organizes Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav (RSM) and regional festivals to promote cultural engagement.
• 42 regional festivals organized annually, 14 RSMs since 2015. |
| Significance |
• Strengthens cultural unity across India and preserves regional cultures.
• Provides platforms for youth to engage in cultural activities.
• Promotes national integration through events bringing together artists from different regions.
• Contributes to economic development through tourism and employment. |
PYQ:
[2013] Which of the following bodies is/are not mentioned in the Indian Constitution?
1. National Development Council
2. Planning Commission
3. Zonal Councils
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: MACE Telescope
Why in the News?
The Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment (MACE) telescope was inaugurated on October 4th in Hanle, Ladakh.
About MACE Telescope:
|
Details |
| Details and Working |
• World’s highest imaging Cherenkov telescope, located in Hanle, Ladakh, at 4.3 km above sea level.
• It has a 21-meter-wide mirror-dish, the largest in Asia.
• Developed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Electronics Corporation of India Ltd. (ECIL), and Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
• Cherenkov radiation is captured using mirrors and analyzed with photomultiplier tubes (PMTs). Cherenkov radiation is the blue glow emitted when charged particles travel faster than light in a medium.
• Equipped with a high-resolution camera and movable base. |
| Aims and Objectives of MACE |
• Detects high-energy gamma rays (greater than 20 giga-electron volts) emitted by cosmic phenomena.
• Detect Weakly Interacting Massive Particles (WIMPs) for dark matter research.
• Contribute to multi-messenger astronomy by complementing data from other telescopes. |
| How Do Gamma Rays Work in DNA Mutation? |
• Cause ionization, which can break chemical bonds in DNA, leading to mutations.
• Mutations may result in cancers or genetic disorders if not repaired.
• DNA damage from gamma rays can lead to chromosomal aberrations and contribute to carcinogenesis. |
PYQ:
[2015] In the context of modern scientific research, consider the following statements about ‘IceCube’, a particle detector located at South Pole, which was recently in the news:
- It is the world’s largest neutrino detector, encompassing a cubic kilometre of ice.
- It is a powerful telescope to search for dark matter.
- It is buried deep in the ice.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Portuguese rule and liberation of Goa
Why in the News?
- On November 25, the Portuguese conquered Goa, establishing first territorial possession in India by any colonists.
- This marked the beginning of Portugal’s 400-year colonial rule in the region, which ended only in 1961, making them the last colonial power to leave India.
Why the Portuguese came to Goa?
- Vasco da Gama’s voyage in 1498 revealed the thriving trade networks in the Indian Ocean.
- The Portuguese aimed to capitalize on the wealth from the Indian Ocean trade routes.
- Rivalry with Muslim-controlled trade routes prompted the Portuguese to establish a military presence in the region.
- In 1505, the Portuguese State of India was formally established, six years after Vasco da Gama’s arrival.
- Francisco de Almeida, the first Viceroy, set up the first base in Fort Manuel (now part of Kochi).
- The Portuguese controlled the Island of Bom Bahia (later Bombay) until it was ceded to England in 1661.
How Alfonso de Albuquerque conquered Goa?
- Albuquerque (Viceroy, 1509-1515) understood that Goa was essential for controlling the maritime trade routes in the East.
- The decision to attack Goa was influenced by Timmayya, a debated figure, either a Malabari pirate or an aristocrat with links to the Vijayanagara Empire.
- Albuquerque’s first attack on Goa (February-March 1510) was largely successful due to the unpopularity of Sultan Yusuf Adil Shah’s rule among Goa’s Hindu population.
- Many locals supported the Portuguese against the Sultan’s rule.
- After being stranded on the Mandovi River during the monsoon season, Albuquerque received reinforcements from Portugal.
- In November 1510, with reinforcements, Albuquerque launched a successful attack and retook Goa.
Who Was Timmayya?
- Timmayya, a key figure in the conquest of Goa, is described in various sources as a pirate from Malabar.
- However, other historians argue that he was of noble birth and held a prestigious position in the Vijayanagara Empire.
- According to historians, Timmayya was actually a high-ranking admiral in the Vijayanagara navy.
- Though the Portuguese regarded him as a corsair or pirate, he was in fact executing orders from the Vijayanagara Empire, attacking Portuguese and rival merchant ships on his empire’s behalf.
- While some historians argue that Timmayya’s counsel was pivotal in the timing of the attack on Goa, others suggest that Albuquerque may have already planned the assault, with Timmayya’s advice simply solidifying the decision.
Why did Timmayya want Goa conquered?
- The rulers of the Vijayanagara Empire had long eyed Goa after it was lost to the Sultan of Bijapur.
- Timmayya’s personal motivations were likely shaped by the empire’s strategic interest in regaining control of the region, as Goa was seen as a valuable territory in both military and economic terms.
|
PYQ:
[2021] Consider the following statements:
1. It was during the reign of Iltutmish that Chengiz Khan reached the Indus in pursuit of the fugitive Khwarezm prince.
2. It was during the reign of Muhammad-bin-Tughluq that Taimur occupied Multan and crossed the Indus.
3. It was during the reign of Deva Raya II of Vijayanagara Empire that Vasco da Gama reached the coast of Kerala.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 2 and 3 only |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Guru Tegh Bahadur and his Contributions
Why in the News?
November 24 is commemorated as the Shaheedi Divas of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the 9th guru of the Sikhs, who was executed on the orders of Aurangzeb in 1675.
Guru Tegh Bahadur: Everything you need to know
|
Details |
| Who was Guru Tegh Bahadur? |
- Born on April 1, 1621 in Amritsar, Punjab to Guru Hargobind (6th Sikh Guru), Mata Nanaki
- Death: November 11, 1675, executed by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb
- Became 9th Guru (1665 to 1675)
- Promoted the idea of Nirbhau (fearless) and Nirvair (without enmity) and emphasized the oneness of God.
- Referred to as ‘Hind Ki Chadar’ (Shield of India).
|
| What was his historical contribution? |
- Guru stood up for the Hindu Kashmiri Pandits, defending their right to practice their religion against Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb’s oppressive policies.
- Refused to convert to Islam despite facing torture and persecution, ultimately leading to his execution.
- Advocated for the principle of one God, rejecting idol worship and preaching about the unity of all religions.
- Emphasized meditation, self-discipline, moral living, and serving others. He urged Sikhs to remain spiritually committed while defending the rights of the innocent.
- His hymns are compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib, with 115 hymns attributed to him.
- Many Gurdwaras are dedicated to him, including Gurdwara Sis Ganj Sahib in Delhi, built on the site where he was executed.
- Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Sikh Guru, was born to Guru Tegh Bahadur in 1666.
|
PYQ:
[2013] Consider the following Bhakti Saints:
- Dadu Dayal
- Guru Nanak
- Tyagaraja
Who among the above was/were preaching when the Lodi dynasty fell and Babur took over?
(a) 1 and 3
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3
(d) 1 and 2 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)
Why in the News?
Delhi has been experiencing severe air pollution for 10 days, leading the Supreme Court to criticize the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) for its poor response.
About Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM):
|
Details |
| About |
-
- A statutory body for air quality management in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas.
- Established under the Commission for Air Quality Management in NCR and Adjoining Areas, Act 2021, replacing the Environmental Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) (formed in 1998).
- It came into effect in 2020 through an ordinance.
Structure:
- Chairperson: Senior government official (Secretary or Chief Secretary)
- 5 ex-officio members from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh; 3 full-time technical members
- 3 members from NGOs
- Technical support from CPCB, ISRO, and NITI Aayog
|
| Functions |
- Monitor and coordinate air quality management efforts in NCR and adjoining areas
- Research sources of air pollution and propose mitigation strategies
- Implement air quality policies with state agencies
- Raise public awareness and engage communities in air quality management
|
| Powers |
Jurisdiction: Over air quality issues in NCR, including Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
Powers:
- Issue binding directions to authorities and individuals
- Restrict activities impacting air quality
- Investigate and enforce environmental pollution measures
- Take strict actions against non-compliance under the CAQM Act, 2021
- Initiate complaints and enforce regulations
|
PYQ:
[2018] How is the National Green Tribunal (NGT) different from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)?
1. The NGT has been established by an Act whereas the CPCB has been created by an executive order of the Government.
2. The NGT provides environmental justice and helps reduce the burden of litigation in the higher courts whereas the CPCB promotes cleanliness of streams and wells and aims to improve the quality of air in the country.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Lothal’s Maritime Heritage Complex
Why in the News?
PM recently highlighted Lothal’s importance in India’s maritime history as the site of the world’s first dockyard, now home to the National Maritime Heritage Complex under Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
About Lothal’s Maritime Heritage Complex:
| Facts about Lothal |
- Dockyard Evidence: Recent IITGn study confirms existence of a dockyard (222 x 37 meters).
- River Shift: Sabarmati River’s old course closer to Lothal during Harappan period, now 20 km away.
- Trade Route: Linked Ahmedabad, Lothal, Nal Sarovar, Little Rann, and Dholavira.
- Satellite Imagery: Revealed ancient channels of Sabarmati River, confirming Lothal’s strategic location.
- Trade Connections: Traders might have used the Gulf of Khambhat, collecting materials from Ratanpura and transporting them to Mesopotamia.
|
| Historical Significance |
- Built around: 2200 BC as a major trade center for beads, gems, and ornaments.
- Lothal means “mound of the dead” in Gujarati similar to Mohenjodaro.
- Discovered by S.R. Rao, excavated from 1955 to 1960.
- World’s earliest known dock; connected to the ancient Sabarmati River.
- Nominated as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014; only port-town of the Indus Valley Civilization.
|
| Features of the Present Complex |
- Location: Bhal region, Gujarat, India.
- Objective: Showcase India’s 5,000-year-old maritime history, focusing on the first dockyard at Lothal.
- Developed by: Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.
- Components: Exhibition halls, maritime park, amphitheater, and educational spaces.
|
PYQ:
[2021] Which one of the following ancient towns is well-known for its elaborate system of water harvesting and management by building a series of dams and channelling water into connected reservoirs?
(a) Dholavira
(b) Kalibangan
(c) Rakhigarhi
(d) Ropar |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Compressed Biogas (CBG)
Why in the News?
PM Modi inaugurated the 100 TPD cattle dung-based Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) plant in Gwalior.
About the CBG Plant
- The plant is located in Laltipara, Gwalior, within the largest cowshed in the region, Adarsh Gaushala, which houses over 10,000 cattle.
- It spans over 5 acres.
- It is India’s first self-sufficient gaushala with a modern CBG plant, where cow dung and organic waste (such as vegetable and fruit waste from mandis and households) are processed into valuable biogas.
- The project, developed at a cost of ₹31 crores, is a collaboration between Gwalior Municipal Corporation and the Indian Oil Corporation.
Working features:
- Bio CNG: The plant produces 2 tons of compressed Bio CNG daily from 100 tons of cattle dung, providing a cleaner, eco-friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuels.
- Organic Manure: The plant also generates 10-15 tons of dry bio-manure daily, which is a valuable by-product for organic farming.
- Windrow composting: The plant incorporates windrow composting, located adjacent to the main facility, which enhances organic waste processing.
|
What is Compressed Biogas (CBG)?
|
Details |
| About |
- CBG is a renewable natural gas produced from the biochemical conversion of organic waste into methane.
- It is chemically similar to CNG (compressed natural gas) and can be used as an alternative to fossil fuels in transportation, cooking, and power generation.
|
| Process of Making CBG |
- Collection of Organic Waste: Organic waste such as agricultural residue, animal dung, food waste, and municipal solid waste is collected from farms, industries, and households.
- Anaerobic Digestion: Waste is placed in an airtight chamber, where microorganisms break it down without oxygen, producing biogas (methane, carbon dioxide, trace gases).
- Purification: The raw biogas undergoes purification through methods like pressure swing adsorption, water scrubbing, or membrane separation to remove impurities like CO₂, H₂S, and water, leaving pure methane.
- Compression: The purified methane is compressed to 200-250 bar pressure to form CBG, reducing volume for storage and transportation.
- Storage and Distribution: It is stored in high-pressure cylinders or tanks and transported to fuel stations or industries for various applications.
|
| Significance of CBG |
- Reduces fossil fuel dependence.
- Mitigates landfill methane emissions.
- CBG can replace CNG, reducing pollution.
- Utilizes local organic waste.
- Creates jobs, promotes organic farming, and provides eco-friendly fertilizers.
|
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Poverty and Hunger;
Why in the News?
The recent G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, featured the official launch of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty (referred to as “the Alliance”).
What are the primary objectives of the Global Alliance?
- Eradication of Hunger and Poverty: The Alliance aims to eliminate hunger and poverty by 2030, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Support for Vulnerable Populations: It focuses on providing targeted assistance to vulnerable groups through various initiatives, including cash transfers and school meal programs.
- Resource Mobilization: The initiative emphasizes large-scale resource mobilisation to support its objectives, aiming to reach 500 million people through income distribution programs by 2030.
|
Who are the key stakeholders involved in this initiative?
- The Alliance has 148 founding members, including 82 countries such as India, Brazil, and Bangladesh.
- It includes participation from 26 international organizations, such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and UNICEF.
- Nine financial institutions and 31 philanthropic foundations and non-governmental organizations are also involved in supporting the Alliance’s goals.
How will Alliance function?
- The Alliance serves as a platform for countries to share best practices and access technical expertise or financial support from other member nations.
- It offers more than 50 evidence-based policy instruments that member countries can utilize to develop their national strategies against hunger and poverty.
- Unlike traditional funding bodies, the Alliance does not have an exclusive fund but acts as a matchmaking entity connecting countries in need with donors and technical support providers. Its operational costs are estimated at $2-3 million annually, funded by member contributions.
What challenges does the Global Alliance aim to address in combating hunger and poverty?
- Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic has exacerbated issues of hunger and poverty, reversing progress made toward the SDGs. The Alliance aims to counteract these setbacks by fostering international cooperation.
- Global Inequalities: It addresses deepening social, racial, and gender inequalities that have been intensified by recent global crises.
- Food Insecurity Projections: Current trends suggest that without intervention, millions will continue to live in extreme poverty and hunger by 2030—double the target levels set in the SDGs. The Alliance seeks to reverse these projections through coordinated action.
Conclusion: The Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty aligns with SDGs 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) by mobilizing resources, fostering collaboration, and implementing targeted interventions to combat hunger, poverty, and inequalities, ensuring a sustainable and inclusive future.
Mains PYQ:
Q Poverty and malnutrition create a vicious cycle, adversely affecting human capital formation. What steps can be taken to break the cycle? (UPSC IAS/2024)
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Kaziranga National Park
Why in the News?
A sub-adult female tiger from Kamakhya Reserve Forest in Assam strayed near Kaziranga National Park and was attacked by locals.
All facts about Kaziranga National Park:
|
Details |
| About |
• Located in the Golaghat, Sonitpur, Biswanath, and Nagaon districts of Assam, India.
• Spans 430 sq. km. (166 square miles).
• Established as a reserve forest in 1905, declared as a National park in 1974, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
• Declared as a Tiger Reserve in 2006. |
| Geographical Features |
• The park is crisscrossed by the Brahmaputra River along with numerous small bodies of water.
• Dominated by tall elephant grass, marshland, and tropical moist broadleaf forests.
• Terrain includes sandbars, beels (flood-formed lakes), and chapories (elevated areas). |
| Flora and Fauna |
- Flora: Includes 4 main vegetation types: alluvial inundated grasslands, alluvial savanna woodlands, tropical moist mixed deciduous forests, and tropical semi-evergreen forests.
- Fauna: Home to 35 mammalian species(15 threatened), it also includes the world’s largest populations of Indian rhinoceros (2,613), wild water buffalo (1,666), swamp deer (468), elephants (1,940), gaur (1,300), and sambar (58).
• Important bird area with 57 species of birds, including migratory species.
• Rich biodiversity, including significant populations of chital, Indian muntjac, wild boar, and hog deer.
|
PYQ:
[2013] Consider the following pairs:
National Park River flowing through the Park
1. Corbett National Park : Ganga
2. Kaziranga National Park : Manas
3. Silent Valley National Park : Kaveri
Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 3
(d) None |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Ashtamudi Lake
Why in the News?
Several dead fish are floating on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake in Kerala due to illegal use of ‘thotta’ (explosives) and ‘nanchu’ (poisons) for fishing.
About Ashtamudi Lake:
|
Details |
| About |
• Brackish-water estuarine lake, located in Kerala, covering 5,700 hectares.
• Designated as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 2002. |
| Geographical Features |
• Encompasses 8 channels (arms) connecting to the lake, giving it the name “Ashtamudi.” (gateway to the backwaters of Kerala)
• Second largest lake in Kerala (first being the Vembanad Lake), drains into the sea via Neendakara estuary.
• Kallada River is the main water source for the lake.
• Historical significance as a major port city of Quilon, as recorded by Ibn Battuta. |
| Flora and Fauna |
• Mangrove species: Avicennia officinalis, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, Sonneratia caseolaris.
• Endangered species: Syzygium travancoricum and Calamus rotang.
• 57 species of avifauna, including 6 migratory species and 51 resident species.
• In 2014, the Clam Governing Council became the first Marine Stewardship Council certified fishery in India for their sustainable clam fishing. |
PYQ:
[2018] Which one of the following is an artificial lake?
(a) Kodaikanal (Tamil Nadu)
(b) Kolleru (Andhra Pradesh)
(c) Nainital (Uttarakhand)
(d) Renuka (Himachal Pradesh) |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Nafithromycin
Why in the News?
The Ministry of Science & Technology has launched Nafithromycin, India’s first indigenous antibiotic to combat drug-resistant infections.
About Nafithromycin:
|
Details |
| About |
• It was developed with the support of the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), a unit under the Department of Biotechnology, to combat antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
• It aims to treat Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (CABP) caused by drug-resistant bacteria.
( Awaiting final approval from CDSCO for manufacturing and public use.) |
| Features |
• Developed over 14 years of clinical trials in the U.S., Europe, and India.
• 10 times more effective than azithromycin. (3 doses to combat Drug-Resistant Pneumonia)
• Minimal side effects, no significant drug interactions, and food-independent. |
| Significance |
• It targets both typical and atypical pathogens.
• It addresses a global health issue, especially CABP, contributing to over 2 million deaths annually.
• Offers a more effective, faster, and safer treatment for drug-resistant pneumonia.
• Demonstrates successful public-private collaboration between the government and Wockhardt Pharmaceuticals.
• A cost-effective solution for treating resistant infections in low-resource settings. |
PYQ:
[2019] Which of the following are the reasons for the occurrence of multi-drug resistance in microbial pathogens in India?
- Genetic predisposition of some people
- Taking incorrect doses of antibiotics to cure diseases
- Using antibiotics in livestock farming
- Multiple chronic diseases in some people
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4
(d) 2, 3 and 4 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Project Veer Gatha 4.0
Why in the News?
Over 1.76 crore school students participated in Project Veer Gatha 4.0, sharing creative tributes to the bravery and sacrifice of Armed Forces personnel.
About Project Veer Gatha:
|
Details |
| About |
• Launched in 2021 to honor the acts of bravery and selfless sacrifice of Gallantry Awardees.
• 1.76 crore students from 36 states and UTs participated.
• Conducted annually since its inception, with increasing participation:
• First Edition (2021): 8 lakh students, Second Edition (2022): 19.5 lakh students, Third Edition (2023): 1.36 crore students. |
| Aims and Objectives |
• Instill patriotism and national pride among students.
• Spread awareness about the heroic contributions of Gallantry Awardees.
• Foster creativity through various forms of artistic expression.
• Promote national unity and pride across India’s diverse school system.
• Enhance knowledge about unsung heroes and military heritage. |
| Features of the Program |
• Creative content submissions, including poems, paintings, essays, and videos.
• 100 national-level winners annually, with a ₹10,000 cash prize and recognition by the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Defence.
• District and state awards for outstanding students.
• Educational outreach programs by the Ministry of Defence to engage students.
• Digital submission via the MyGov portal, making the process inclusive and easy for wide participation.
• Focus on both famous Gallantry Awardees and unsung heroes. |
PYQ:
[2024] Operations undertaken by the Army towards upliftment of the local population in remote areas to include addressing of their basic needs is called:
(a) Operation Sankalp
(b) Operation Maitri
(c) Operation Sadbhavana
(d) Operation Madad |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: D’Cunha Committee and its recommendations
Why in the News?
The commission, headed by retired High Court judge John Michael D’Cunha, has released a report investigating the irregularities in the procurement and management of COVID-19 resources in Karnataka.
Key Findings:
- Among the major concerns are the procurement of ventilators under the PM CARES Fund and the inflated prices of PPE kits.
- The report has raised alarms over the unnecessary procurement of ventilators and the questionable pricing of PPE kits sourced from Chinese companies.
|
What is the D’Cunha Committee?
- It was formed in August 2023 to investigate the alleged irregularities in COVID-19 procurements and management of medical supplies during the tenure of the erstwhile government in Karnataka.
- It was headed by retired High Court judge John Michael D’Cunha.
- It was tasked with examining the procurement processes and the disbursement of funds under various schemes, particularly the PM CARES Fund, and identifying administrative lapses and corruption.
Recommendations given by the Committee:
- Investigate Ventilator Procurement: Recommend a probe into the procurement of 130 ventilators on March 22, 2020, under questionable circumstances, despite similar supplies under PM CARES.
- Review Undelivered Ventilators: Recommended action on payments made for ventilators that were undelivered or partially delivered.
- Scrutiny of Price Variations: Called for an investigation into the vast price differences for ventilators, ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹16.25 lakh.
- Probe PPE Kit Purchases: Suggested further inquiry into inflated prices for PPE kits bought from Chinese firms despite cheaper local alternatives.
- Formation of SIT: Recommended setting up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) for further probe into the Karnataka Medical Supplies Corporation Ltd. (KSMSCL).
- Enhance Transparency: Urged improved procedures to ensure accountability in future procurements.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Coffee Board of India
Why in the News?
The Coffee Board of India has launched a 10-year roadmap with a goal to double the country’s coffee production and coffee exports by 2034.
About Coffee Board of India:
|
Details |
| About |
• Coffee cultivation in India began with the planting of 7 seeds of coffee during 1600 AD by saint Baba Budan, in the courtyard of his hermitage in Chikmagalur, Karnataka.
• Until 1995, marketed the pooled supply of coffee.
• Post-1995, coffee marketing became a private-sector activity due to economic liberalisation. |
| Structural Mandate |
• Managed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, established in 1942, headquartered in Bangalore.
• Comprises 33 members, including a Chairman appointed by the Government of India. |
| Functions of Coffee Board |
• Enhancement of production, productivity & quality.
• Export promotion for achieving higher value returns for Indian Coffee.
• Supporting the development of the domestic market. |
| Coffee Industry in India – Imports/Exports |
• Karnataka is the largest producer (70%), followed by Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
• India exports over 70% of its coffee production.
• India is the 8th largest coffee exporter (FAO) globally (by volume).
• Coffee exports peak from March to June. |
| Agro-climatic Conditions |
• It is a tropical plant which is also grown in semi-tropical climate.
• 16° – 28°C temperature, 150-250cm rainfall and well-drained slopes are essential for its growth.
• Low temperature, frost, dry weather for a long time and harsh sunshine are harmful for its plant.
• Coffee plants grow better in the laterite soils of Karnataka in India.
• Major Varieties Cultivated: Arabica, Robusta and Liberica.
• Arabica has high market value than Robusta coffee due to its mild aromatic flavor. |
PYQ:
[2010] Though coffee and tea both are cultivated on hill slopes, there is some difference between them regarding their cultivation. In this context, consider the following statements:
- Coffee plant requires a hot and humid climate of tropical areas whereas tea can be cultivated in both tropical and subtropical areas.
- Coffee is propagated by seeds but tea is propagated by stem cuttings only.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: ‘Bhu-Neer’ Portal, CGWA
Why in the News?
The ‘Bhu-Neer’ Portal was digitally launched by Minister of Jal Shakti, during the India Water Week 2024.
About the ‘Bhu-Neer’ Portal:
|
Details |
| About |
• Centralized platform for managing groundwater withdrawal permits.
• Developed by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) and National Informatics Centre (NIC).
• Aims to regulate groundwater usage across India efficiently, ensuring transparency and sustainability. |
| Features and Provisions |
• User-friendly interface with PAN-based single ID, NOC with QR code, and streamlined processes.
• Improved version compared to its predecessor, NOCAP.
• Ensures groundwater compliance and promotes sustainable practices. |
| Implementation |
• The portal is live and accessible for groundwater queries, tracking, and payments.
• Open to both project proponents and the general public for groundwater-related services. |
Back2Basics: Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA)
- It has the mandate of regulating groundwater development and management in the country.
- It is constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act of 1986.
- CGWA issues advisories, public notices and grant No Objection Certificates (NOC) for groundwater withdrawal.
|
PYQ:
[2020] Consider the following statements:
1. 36% of India’s districts are classified as “overexploited” or “critical” by the Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA).
2. CGWA was formed under the Environment (Protection) Act.
3. India has the largest area under groundwater irrigation in the world.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 only
(d) 1 and 3 only |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: High-Altitude Sickness
Why in the News?
The tragic death of a trekker scaling Garur Peak in Uttarakhand, underscores the dangers of high-altitude sickness in the Himalayas.
What is High-Altitude Sickness?
- Causes: High-altitude sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), occurs when the body struggles to acclimatise to elevations above 8,000 feet (2,400 metres) due to reduced oxygen levels.
- Symptoms: Early signs include headache, nausea, fatigue, and shortness of breath. If untreated, it may escalate to:
- High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE): Fluid in the lungs, causing breathing difficulties.
- High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE): Fluid in the brain, leading to confusion, hallucinations, and coma.
Prevention and Treatment
- To prevent AMS, experts recommend a slow ascent with rest days every 3-4 days above 3,000 meters and avoiding sleeping elevation increases of more than 500 meters per day.
- Medications:
- Acetazolamide: Aids acclimatisation.
- Dexamethasone: Reduces severe inflammation.
- Nifedipine: Prevents HAPE in high-risk individuals.
Note: Medications are not foolproof and are to be taken under medical guidance.
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: World Toilet Day, 2024
Why in the News?
- World Toilet Day, celebrated every year on November 19, is an official United Nations observance aimed at raising awareness of the global sanitation crisis and promoting action for safe toilets worldwide.
- 2024 Theme: “Sanitation for Peace” – highlights the role of sanitation in promoting peace, security, and resilience.
About World Toilet Day
- It is celebrated each year on November 19 to raise awareness about global sanitation issues.
- It became an UN-recognized day in 2013 to emphasize the importance of safe sanitation under SDG 6.
- It was first proposed by Jack Sim of the World Toilet Organization in 2001.
- Purpose: To address the health, dignity, and environmental challenges linked to inadequate sanitation.
|
Significance and Global Collaborations
- Public Health: Prevents waterborne diseases; 1,000 child deaths daily linked to unsafe sanitation (WHO).
- UN Initiatives: UNICEF, WHO, and UN-Water work with countries to improve WASH (water, sanitation, hygiene) facilities.
- NGO Support: Organizations like World Toilet Organization and WaterAid implement sanitation projects and awareness.
- International Partnerships: Programs like Sanitation and Water for All (SWA) unify governments and NGOs for sanitation solutions.
India’s Policies and Successes
- Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM):
- SBM-Grameen: Over 11.73 crore household toilets built; 5.57 lakh villages ODF.
- SBM-Urban: 63.63 lakh household toilets constructed; 4,576 cities ODF.
- Jal Jeevan Mission: Aims to provide piped drinking water to rural households, supporting sanitation.
- Women’s Safety Campaigns: Programs like Hamara Shauchalay: Hamara Samman link sanitation to dignity, especially for women.
- Waste Management: SBM Phase II focuses on sustainable waste management and sanitation systems.
PYQ:
[2024] Consider the following statements regarding World Toilet Organization:
- It is one of the agencies of the United Nations.
- World Toilet Summit, World Toilet Day and World Toilet College are the initiatives of this organization, to inspire action to tackle the global sanitation crisis.
- The main focus of its function is to grant funds to the least developed countries and developing countries to achieve the end of open defecation.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 2 only
(b) 3 only
(c) 1 and 2
(d) 2 and 3 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve
Why in the News?
The Indian government has notified Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve in Chhattisgarh as the country’s 56th Tiger Reserve, now recognized as the third-largest tiger reserve in India.
Largest Tiger Reserves in India:
- First: Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve, Andhra Pradesh
- Second: Manas Tiger Reserve, Assam
- Third: Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve, Chhattisgarh
|
About the Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve (TR):
|
Details |
| Location |
• Located across Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur, Korea, Surajpur, and Balrampur districts of Chhattisgarh.
• Total area: 2,829.38 sq. km.
• Core area: 2,049.2 sq. km (Guru Ghasidas National Park + Tamor Pingla Wildlife Sanctuary).
• Buffer area: 780.15 sq. km. |
| Regional Significance |
• Contiguous with Sanjay Dubri Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh forming a 4,500 sq. km landscape.
• Connected to Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve (west) and Palamau Tiger Reserve (east). |
| Biodiversity |
• 753 species documented by Zoological Survey of India.
• 230 bird species.
• 55 mammal species, including several threatened species. |
| Landscape |
• Located within the Chota Nagpur Plateau and partly in the Baghelkhand Plateau.
• Features dense forests, streams, and rivers, providing a rich habitat for tigers and diverse fauna. |
PYQ:
[2020] Among the following Tiger Reserves, which one has the largest area under “Critical Tiger Habitat”?
(a) Corbett
(b) Ranthambore
(c) Nagarjunsagar-Srisailam
(d) Sunderbans |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Italy-India Joint Strategic Action Plan
Why in the News?
India and Italy signed an ambitious 5-year ‘joint strategic action plan 2025-2029’ that would include cooperation in space sector, critical technology, research, co-production of military equipment and widening the ambit of economic cooperation.
Key Focus Areas of the Joint Strategic Action Plan:
|
Details |
| Political Dialogue |
• Regular high-level meetings and reciprocal visits.
• Annual bilateral consultations between foreign ministries to discuss mutual interests. |
| Economic Cooperation |
• Boosting trade, market access, and investments in sectors like transportation, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and green technologies.
• Promoting industrial partnerships and mutual investments. |
| Connectivity |
• Collaborating on sustainable transport initiatives.
• Enhancing maritime and land infrastructure, participating in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEEC). |
| Science, Technology, IT, Innovation |
• Cooperation in emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), telecommunications, and digital services.
• Innovation, research collaborations, and exchange programs for scientific growth. |
| Space Sector |
• Collaboration between the Italian Space Agency (ASI) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in Earth observation and lunar science.
• Facilitating mutual commercial space collaborations. |
| Energy Transition |
• Technology summits in renewable energy.
• Cooperation in green hydrogen, biofuels, and energy efficiency.
• Collaboration in global energy alliances like the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Global Biofuels Alliance. |
| Defence Cooperation |
• Joint defence consultations and staff talks.
• Co-development of defence platforms and equipment.
• Negotiating a Defence Industrial Roadmap. |
| Security Cooperation |
• Capacity-building in cybersecurity and counter-terrorism.
• Regular exchanges and sector-specific talks in multilateral forums. |
Significance of the Plan:
- Time-Bound Initiatives: It outlines specific, time-bound initiatives to ensure measurable progress and accountability.
- Mutual Growth: By focusing on co-development and co-production, the plan aims to leverage the strengths of both nations for mutual economic and technological advancement.
- Strategic Alignment: The collaboration in areas like defence, energy transition, and space signifies a strategic alignment of interests, enhancing regional and global stability.
- Cultural and People-to-People Ties: Emphasizing cultural exchanges and academic collaborations strengthens the social fabric and mutual understanding between the two countries.
PYQ:
[2016] With reference to the ‘Trans-Pacific Partnership’, consider the following statements:
1. It is an agreement among all the Pacific Rim countries except China and Russia.
2. It is a strategic alliance for the purpose of maritime security only.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2 |
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Note4Students
From UPSC perspective, the following things are important :
Prelims level: Oriental pied Hornbills
Why in the News?
The people of Mayong village in Assam have come together to protect a growing colony of oriental pied hornbills, which they view as symbols of peace and prosperity.
About Oriental-pied Hornbills
|
Details |
| Name |
Scientific Name: Anthracoceros albirostris
Common Names: Sunda Pied Hornbill, Malaysian Pied Hornbill
Size: 600-900 grams, 55-60 cm in length. |
| Habitat |
Found in South and Southeast Asia including India, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Inhabits tropical moist forests, secondary forests, and mangroves. |
| Behavioural Features |
Diet: Omnivorous, mainly fruits (figs), insects, small reptiles.
Role: Seed dispersers, forest regeneration agents.
Nesting: Female seals in tree cavity, male feeds her. |
| Conservation Status |
IUCN Red List: Least Concern; CITES: Appendix II (conditional trade permitted).
Threats: Habitat loss, poaching, pet trade.
Conservation: Protected in reserves, community efforts for habitat preservation. |
PYQ:
[2016] In which of the following regions of India, are you most likely to come across the ‘Great Indian Hornbill’ in its natural habitat?
(a) Sand deserts of northwest India
(b) Higher Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir
(c) Salt marshes of western Gujarat
(d) Western Ghats |
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